Orthodontics is one of many dental specialties. The word “orthodontics” is derived from the Greek words orthos, meaning proper or straight and odons meaning teeth. Orthodontics is specifically concerned with diagnosing and treating tooth misalignment and irregularity in the jaw area. Initially, orthodontic treatments were geared toward the treatment of teens and pre-teens, but these days around 30 percent of orthodontic patients are adults.

There are many advantages to well-aligned teeth, including easier cleaning, better oral hygiene, clearer speech and a more pleasant smile. Though orthodontic treatment can be effective at any age, the American Dental Association suggests that an orthodontic assessment should be performed around the age of seven. The earlier orthodontics treatment begins, the more quickly the problem can be successfully resolved.

What problems can be treated with orthodontics?

Orthodontics is a versatile branch of dentistry that can be used alone, or in combination with maxillofacial or cosmetic dentistry.

Here are some of the common conditions treated with orthodontics:

Anteroposterior deviations – The discrepancy between a pair of closed jaws is known as an anteroposterior discrepancy or deviation. An example of such a discrepancy would be an overbite (where the upper teeth are further forward than the lower teeth), or an underbite (where the lower teeth are further forward than the upper teeth).

Overcrowding – Overcrowding is a common orthodontic problem. It occurs when there is an insufficient space for the normal growth and development of adult teeth.

Aesthetic problems – A beautiful straight smile may be marred by a single misaligned tooth. This tooth can be realigned with ease and accuracy by the orthodontist. Alternatively, orthodontists can also work to reshape and restructure the lips, jaw or the face.

Orthodontic Solutions

Orthodontics is a technologically advanced field which offers many sophisticated solutions to malocclusions and other cosmetic problems. The orthodontist will generally perform a visual examination, panoramic x-rays and study models (bite impressions) in order to assess the exact nature of the discrepancy.

When a diagnosis has been made, there are a variety of orthodontic treatment options available.

Here is an overview of some of the most common treatments:

Fixed orthodontic braces – A metal or ceramic dental base is affixed to each tooth, and a dental wire is inserted through each base. The orthodontist is able to gradually train the teeth into proper alignment by regularly adjusting the wire. When the desired results are achieved, the fixed dental braces are completely removed.

Removable appliances – There is a wide range of removable appliances commonly used in orthodontics, including headgear that correct overbites, Hawley retainers that improve the position of the teeth even as the jawbone reforms, and face masks which are used to correct an underbite.

Invisalign – This is a newer, removable type of dental aligner that is completely transparent. Invisalign does not interfere with eating because of its removable nature, and mechanically works in the same way as the traditional metal dental braces. Not all patients are candidates for Invisalign.

Years of wear and tear can cause your once-pearly whites to dull! And when your smile is often your first impression, it is so important for it to look the best it can! Check out these home remedies for teeth whitening!

Banana Peel: Use the inside of a banana peel to whiten your teeth. Banana peels contain magnesium, manganese, and potassium. Rub the inside of a peel that has no green or brown spots on the surface of your teeth for 2 minutes and then brush normally, once a week.

Activated Charcoal: Activated charcoal has been all the rage lately when it comes to personal hygiene. It has dental benefits as well! It can help with the removal of stains from coffee and wine on your teeth. Mix with activated charcoal with water, dab on teeth, let sit for two minutes, rinse and brush normal, no more than once a week because the abrasiveness of the charcoal can damage teeth.

Turmeric: The magical spice that is turmeric has astringent properties which tighten gums and remove plaque as well as a multitude of other health benefits. Mix two parts turmeric with one part coconut oil and one part baking soda, and brush for two minutes, once a week. Rinse and brush normally after.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is not only great for a natural detoxing agent, it is antibacterial, which is great for dental health. Mix one part apple cider vinegar, two parts water in a cup and gargle. Rinse, and brush as normal, every morning.

Coconut Oil: Coconut Oil pulling is quickly becoming the next big trend, but it actually works! Coconut oil is antibacterial and antifungal because it contains lauric acid. Swish one tablespoon of virgin organic coconut oil for five minutes, every morning. But make sure you spit it out after! Because it contains saturated fats, it is not healthy to consume large amounts of coconut oil.

Beware of at home teeth whitening kits that you can get from a drug store. These kits are not ADA approved and some of them simply do not have enough of a teeth whitening agent to even affect any change. Sometimes, years of wear and tear on your enamel can cause discoloration that even these household trick can’t fix! When that happens, come into your local dentist for a consultation for in-office professional teeth whitening.

Like any other surgery, dental implantation carries risks of complications, which you should be aware of. It is very important to know some of the risk factors of dental implants prior the procedure, so you would feel more prepared and comfortable with it.

The most important thing is to be healthy previous to the dental implants surgery so that your tissue can heal properly. Tell your surgeon about all of your allergies, existing medical conditions, medications, bleeding disorders, which could possibly affect the implantation process. Even though it might sound scary, but the success rate is extremely high.

Possible Complications

Sinus problems (there is a possibility that implants could protrude into the sinus cavity).

Infection (if the surgical area and instrument weren’t disinfected enough or if the mouth was not taken care after properly after the surgery, then there is the possibility to see signs of an infection around the jawbone or surrounding tissues.)

Nerve damage (if such situation happens, you would be able to feel tingling in your gums, teeth, chin or lips or you could feel pain or numbness in the area).

Injury to the surrounding tissues.

Pain after the surgery – your bone will be affected during the surgery, so pain, swelling, sensitivity, and soreness can appear. However, your dentist will prescribe you some pain relief medication to help you feel more comfortable throughout the healing process.

What you need to understand, that it takes months for the bone to grow with the implant tightly. So even though the overall implantation surgery could be successful, some problems might occur during the healing process, such as:

A dental implant can become loose and fall out.

If the two steps procedure was done in one step, the implant can also fall out. This would put too much pressure on the implant, which would cause it to loosen up and fall out.

Implant fail – it means that dental implant doesn’t fix with the bone properly, so the tissues would naturally grow around it. You should know if the implant is rejected from your body within the first year. However, 90% of dental implants affix and fit perfectly.

Peri-implantitis – This disease is caused by bacterial infection and occurs with a gradual bone loss in the implantation area.

Dr. Gold at Newport Beach Dental Associates will be happy to discuss with you more on the dental implantation process. He will not only thoroughly examine your mouth and situation but will also offer you the most suitable treatment plan for your individual case. Feel free to call us and set up your appointment: (949) 650-6772.

Forget everything you know about dental hygiene routine.

You might be using the same routine you’ve had since you were a kid. Or you might be using a new trend such as activated charcoal or oil pulling. But this blog is the ultimate bible of proper dental hygiene FAQS according to actual dentists, so take notes!

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s start with what kind of tools you should be using in the first place!

How often should I change my toothbrush?

The American Dental Association recommends that you change your toothbrush every three to four months, and even earlier if it starts to fray. A frayed toothbrush will not be as effective for removing plaque.

Looks like it is time for a new toothbrush!

What kind of toothbrush should I be using?

This depends. If you have any dexterity or mobility issues, a powered toothbrush might be easier but is not necessary. Most shape and size designs are just created for an individual’s comfort. Most dentists agree that softer bristles are best for cleaning your teeth and removing plaque without damaging or stressing the gums.

What is the proper brushing technique?

Place toothbrush at a 45°angle all along the gum line and use back and forth motion on each tooth. Using the same technique brush the inner and chewing surfaces of the teeth. With the tip of the brush clean behind the tooth with top and bottom, up and down, front and backstrokes. In order to remove odor-causing bacteria don’t forget to brush your tongue also.

What kind of toothpaste should I be using?

As long as your toothpaste contains fluoride, the rest is dependent on your individualistic needs. For example, if you suffer from pain because of sensitivity, you should choose a sensitivity toothpaste. Click here for a list of the top toothpaste for sensitivity. But you can also choose toothpaste based on natural ingredients, teeth whitening, or taste.

Do I really need to floss?

YES. When you are flossing, be careful not to jerk the floss into your gums. Be gentle and when the floss is about to touch your gums, curve it against the side of the tooth. If you are having trouble, you can also use a dental pick or pre-made threaded flosser. Flossing can help to prevent gum disease as well as tooth decay. If small bits of food particles remain in your teeth, the bacteria in your mouth will break them down into acid that can corrode your teeth! Click here for a comprehensive list of the best dental flosses you can buy.

Hug the tooth with the floss to avoid hitting the gums and causing bleeding.

How long and how frequent should I be brushing?

At least twice a day for at least two minutes each time. It would be best to at least rinse after eating any food to limit the number of food particles left in your mouth as well.

Is mouthwash necessary?

Mouthwash is not an essential part of a daily dental hygiene routine. That does not mean that it can help with bad breath or to help rinse out food particles though! Beware of mouthwash that contains alcohol though because that can dry out your mouth, creating a friendly environment for bacteria! Click here for a list of alcohol-free mouthwashes.

Should I be following dental health trends such as activated charcoal and oil pulling?

Coconut Oil: Coconut Oil pulling is quickly becoming the next big trend, but it actually works! Coconut oil is antibacterial and antifungal because it contains lauric acid. Swish one tablespoon of virgin organic coconut oil for five minutes, every morning. But make sure you spit it out after! Because it contains saturated fats, it is not healthy to consume large amounts of coconut oil.

Activated Charcoal: Activated charcoal has been all the rage lately when it comes to personal hygiene. It has dental benefits as well! It can help with the removal of stains from coffee and wine on your teeth. Mix with activated charcoal with water, dab on teeth, let sit for two minutes, rinse and brush normal, no more than once a week because the abrasiveness of the charcoal can damage teeth. Make sure you spit it all out though because consuming too much charcoal can affect any medications you might be taking.

I hope our tips to improve your daily dental care was useful. Our team at Newport Beach Dental Associates will be happy to answer all your questions and to help you to schedule your dental cleaning or oral examination appointment with our highly qualified specialists. Feel free to call us: (949) 650-6772.

Newport Beach Dental Associates

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"Dr. Gold is the dentist to go to. I could not believe how much better condition my teeth have been in since he has been my dentist.

I invite my coworkers, friends, and family to see him whenever they need teeth work done. Dr. Gold is certainly the dentist I have been looking for."- Peter J.